Mini isolator

ABSTRACT

An isolator includes an input connector configured to connect the isolator to a first device. The isolator also includes an output connector configured to connect the isolator to a second device. The isolator also includes a body including an outer shield. The isolator also includes a coupling member positioned at least partially within the outer shield. The coupling member is configured to electrically couple with the outer shield. The isolator also includes a coaxial circuit positioned at least partially around a first portion of the coupling member. The isolator also includes a toroid positioned at least partially around a second portion of the coupling member The isolator also includes a compression material configured to apply a force to the coaxial circuit and the toroid. The isolator also includes a signal conditioning circuit configured to condition signals communicated between the input connector and the output connector.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/468,893, filed Mar. 24, 2017, which claims the benefit and priorityof U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/312,891, filed Mar. 24,2016. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/468,893 is also acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/290,216,filed Oct. 11, 2016, which claims benefit and priority of U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 62/239,685, filed Oct. 9, 2015. Theentire contents of each of these documents is incorporated herein byreference.

BACKGROUND

In a typical building, ground potential in the electrical systems of thebuilding needs to be equalized for all networks so that differentnetworks function properly. For example, a power line and cabletelevision (CATV) network require equal ground potentials as theyutilize common equipment. For developed countries, the groundinstallation and setup may be regulated, and thus the networks in abuilding may not experience issues. On the other hand, otherjurisdictions where regulation is less, improper grounding may become anissue when different networks have different ground potentials.

When two networks are connected, for example, when a cable is connectedto the CATV set top box, a current will flow from CATV network to aneutral line of the set top box or vice versa if the ground potentialsare not equal. In some cases, this current may reach levels that damagethe set top box, and may even become hazardous to the user or installer.Therefore, the neutral lines of these networks need to be isolated toprevent current flow.

Currently, there are isolators available to address this problem.However, the available isolators are bulky and expensive. For example,in some isolators, isolation is achieved on a printed circuit board thathas two ground metallization: one side of the metalization connected toa female connector side and the other side of the metalization to a maleconnector. The coupling between two ground metalizations is achieved viaa coupling capacitor and electromagnetic interference (EMI) filtering isachieved on the printed circuit board from one side metalization to theother using ferrites. This configuration results in large and bulkyisolators.

SUMMARY

Embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure provide a coaxialradio frequency (RF) isolator. The isolator includes a conductive bodyincluding a first coaxial coupler configured to connect the isolator toa first device. The isolator also includes a conductive outer shieldpositioned at least partially around at least a portion of theconductive body. The isolator also includes a dielectric barrierpositioned at least partially between conductive body and the conductiveouter shield. The dielectric barrier is configured to electricallyisolate the conductive body from the conductive outer shield. Theisolator also includes a second coaxial coupler configured to connectthe isolator to a second device. The isolator also includes a signalconditioning device configured to condition RF signals communicatedbetween the first coaxial coupler and the second coaxial coupler. Theisolator also includes a signal path extending at least partiallythrough the first coaxial coupler, the signal conditioning device, andthe second coaxial coupler. The signal path is configured to conduct theRF signals between the first coaxial coupler and the second coaxialcoupler. The isolator also includes a coaxial circuit configured toblock direct current flow between the conductive body, the conductiveouter shield, the second coaxial coupler, or a combination thereof. Theisolator also includes a magnetic toroid configured to filter the RFsignals from electromagnetic interference.

In another embodiment, the isolator includes an input connectorconfigured to connect the isolator to a first device. The isolator alsoincludes an output connector configured to connect the isolator to asecond device. The isolator also includes a body including an outershield. The isolator also includes a coupling member positioned at leastpartially within the outer shield. The coupling member is configured toelectrically couple with the outer shield. The isolator also includes acoaxial circuit positioned at least partially around a first portion ofthe coupling member. The isolator also includes a toroid positioned atleast partially around a second portion of the coupling member Theisolator also includes a compression material configured to apply aforce to the coaxial circuit and the toroid. The isolator also includesa signal conditioning circuit configured to condition signalscommunicated between the input connector and the output connector.

In yet another embodiment, the isolator includes an outer shield. Theisolator also includes a first connector configured to connect theisolator to a first device. The isolator also includes a secondconnector configured to connect the isolator to a second device. Theisolator also includes a conditioning circuit configured to conditionsignals communicated between the first connector and the secondconnector. The isolator also includes a coaxial circuit configured toprovide ground isolation between the first connector and the secondconnector. The isolator also includes a compression material configuredto apply a force to the coaxial circuit.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various features of the implementations can be more fully appreciated,as the same become better understood with reference to the followingdetailed description of the implementations when considered inconnection with the accompanying figures, in which:

FIG. 1A illustrates an exploded perspective view of example of anisolator, according to various implementations consistent with thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 1B illustrates an exploded side view of an example of an isolator,according to various implementations consistent with the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 1C illustrates an exploded perspective view of an example of anisolator, according to various implementations consistent with thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 1D illustrates a perspective view of an example of an isolator,according to various implementations consistent with the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 1E illustrates an exploded perspective view of an example of anisolator, according to various implementations consistent with thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of an example of a filtering andcoupling element, according to various implementations consistent withthe present disclosure;

FIG. 2B illustrates a cutaway perspective view of an example of afiltering and coupling element, according to various implementationsconsistent with the present disclosure;

FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of an example of a coaxialprinted circuit board (PCB), according to various implementationsconsistent with the present disclosure;

FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view of an example of a coaxialprinted circuit board (PCB), according to various implementationsconsistent with the present disclosure;

FIG. 3C illustrates a front view of an example of a coaxial PCB,according to various implementations consistent with the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 3D illustrates a rear view of an example of a coaxial PCB,according to various implementations consistent with the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 3E illustrates a perspective view of an example of a coaxial PCB,according to various implementations consistent with the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 4A illustrates a cutaway side view of an example of an isolator,according to various implementations consistent with the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 4B illustrates a cutaway side view of an example of an isolator,according to various implementations consistent with the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 4C illustrates a cutaway side view of an example of an isolator,according to various implementations consistent with the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 4D illustrates a cutaway side view of an example of an isolator,according to various implementations consistent with the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 4E illustrates a cutaway side view of an example of an isolator,according to various implementations consistent with the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 4F illustrates a cutaway side view of an example of an isolator,according to various implementations consistent with the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 4G illustrates a cutaway side view of an example of an isolator,according to various implementations consistent with the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 4H illustrates a cutaway side view of an example of an isolator,according to various implementations consistent with the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 4I illustrates a cutaway side view of an example of an isolator,according to various implementations consistent with the presentdisclosure; and

FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded perspective of an example of an isolator,according to various implementations consistent with the presentdisclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, references are made to theaccompanying figures, which illustrate specific examples of variousimplementations. Electrical, mechanical, logical, and structural changescan be made to the examples of the various implementations withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the present teachings. Thefollowing detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in alimiting sense and the scope of the present teachings is defined by theappended claims and their equivalents.

An isolator in accordance with aspects of the present disclosureprovides EMI filtering, ground coupling, and/or surge protection, whichcan protect a PCB housed within the isolator. In some implementations,the PCB can be a coaxial PCB, which can be connected within the isolatorduring assembly solely by compression fitting (e.g., without additionalattachments, such as solder or adhesive). Additionally, because the PCBincludes a coaxial design, space utilized by the coaxial PCB in theisolator is reduced. Further, in some implementations of the isolator,the coaxial PCB can provide ground connections between two isolatedcavities. Moreover, in some implementations, the isolator includes an RFfiltering cavity surrounding the coaxial PCB and one or more toroids tofilter RF signals to reduce EMI.

According to additional aspects of the present disclosure, the isolatorcan include an insulating grip formed on an exterior of the isolator.The insulating grip can be formed of an insulating sleeve that surroundsan exterior portion of the isolator. The insulating grip can provideelectrical shock protection for a user, for example, an installer,handling the isolator. The insulating grip can also provide protectionagainst shorting two insulated sides of the isolators for additionalsafety to hardware coupled to the isolator. Additionally, the insulatinggrip can include raised members that provide friction and improvehandling and installation. Further, the insulating grip can provideimproved aesthetic design for the isolator by providing colors andpatterns to an exterior of the isolator.

FIGS. 1A-1E illustrate examples of an isolator 100, according to variousimplementations. FIG. 1A illustrates an exploded, three-dimensional viewof the isolator 100, and FIG. 1B illustrates a two-dimensional,cross-sectional view of the isolator 100. FIG. 1C illustrates anexploded, three-dimensional view of the isolator 100 with an insulatinggrip. FIG. 1D illustrates a three-dimensional view of the isolator 100with the insulating grip. FIG. 1E illustrates a three-dimensional viewof the isolator 100 with a two stage design. While FIGS. 1A-1Eillustrate various components contained in the isolator 100, FIGS. 1A-1Eillustrate one example of an isolator and additional components can beadded and existing components can be removed.

As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the isolator 100 can include a body 102that includes a coupler 104, a threaded nut 105, and an outer shield 106arranged along a central axis 150. In some implementations, the isolator100 can be a coaxial radio frequency (RF) isolator, in which the body102, the coupler 104, the threaded nut 105, and the outer shield 106 arepositioned coaxially around a common central axis 150 of the isolator.The coupler 104 can be a female (or male) connector that includes one ormore threads that can connect to a male (or female) coaxial connectorof, for example, a RG-6 coaxial cable. The threaded nut 105 can bescrewed onto the threads of the connector. The outer shield 106 can beconfigured to slide over a portion of the body 102 up to a lip 110. Insome implementations, the body 102 and the outer shield 106 form aninternal cavity for the components within the isolator 100. In someimplementations, the outer shield 106 can be compression fitted over thebody 102 such that the two can be securely attached without the use of,for example, an adhesive material or solder. The body 102 and the outershield 106 can be formed of a conductor material, for example, a metalor metal alloy. In some implementations, the isolator 100 can alsoinclude a spacer 108. The spacer 108 can be formed with an annular shape(e.g., a cylindrical ring) to be placed over a portion of the body 102.The spacer 108 can be formed a dielectric material, such as a plasticinsulator. When the outer shield 106 is compression-fitted over the body102, the spacer 108 can fit between the lip 110 of the body 102 and aninner lip 112 of the outer shield 106.

In some implementations, the isolator 100 can include a sleeve 114 thatcan include a peripheral lip 116. The peripheral lip 116 can be formedsuch that an outer diameter of the sleeve 114 at the peripheral lip 116is smaller than an outer diameter the remaining portion of the sleeve114, while the inner diameter of the sleeve 114 is substantially thesame over the length of the sleeve 114. The peripheral lip 116 can beconfigured to receive the spacer 108. The sleeve 114 can be formed of adielectric material, for example, a plastic insulator. The sleeve 114can be placed between the outer shield 106 and the body 102. Inembodiments, the outer diameter of the peripheral lip 116 can besubstantially the same as an inner diameter of the spacer 108. Thespacer 108 and the sleeve can create an electrically-insulating barrierbetween the body 102 and the outer shield 106 that electrically isolatesthe body 102 from the outer shield 106 when the shield is compressionfitted on the body 102.

In some implementations, the isolator 100 can include acoupling/filtering member 118. The coupling/filtering member 118 can bepressed inside the outer shield 106 to form a smaller internal cavitythat is used for the components of the isolator 100, as furtherdescribed below with reference to FIGS. 2A and 2B. Thecoupling/filtering member 118 can be formed of a conductive material,for example, a metal or metal alloy.

FIG. 2A illustrates an example of the filtering/coupling member 118,according to various implementations. As shown, filtering/couplingmember 118 can be formed in a generally-cylindrical shape withincreasing outer diameters 202, 204, and 206. The coupling/filteringmember 118 can be hollow, forming a cavity 207 therein. Thecoupling/filtering member 118 can also include slots 208 proximal to anaxial end thereof. The slots 208 may be configured to receive and hold aPCB assembly (e.g., PCB 120) stable, for example, to prevent such PCBassembly from rotating freely in the cavity 207 with respect to thefilter/coupling member 118, or to be used as a ground contact for thePCB assembly.

With continuing reference to FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B illustrates thefiltering/coupling member 118 received into the outer shield 106. Asshown, the outer shield 106 can be at least partially formed as acylindrical member 210 including a first opening 212 and a secondopening 214. The first and second openings 212, 214 can be axiallyoriented and separated apart. In an embodiment, the first opening 212can define a larger diameter than the second opening 214. The secondopening 214 can be configured to receive the filtering/coupling member118. Accordingly, the filtering/coupling member 118 can, in someembodiments, be received into the outer shield 106 through the firstopening 212 and seated into the second opening 214. When thefiltering/coupling member 118 is received into the second opening 214,an annular cavity 216 can be defined between (e.g., by) the outer shield106 and the coupling/filtering member 118. The cylindrical member 210can also include one or more (e.g., internal) threads 218 to connect tothe isolator 100 to a cable or device connected to the output of theisolator 100. The threads 218 of the coupling/filtering member 118 canprovide a male (or female) connector that can connect to a female (ormale) coaxial connector of, for example, a RG-6 coaxial cable. In someimplementations, the filtering/coupling member 118 can be designed as apart of the outer shield 106 to reduce the assembly part count. In thisimplementation, the coupling/filtering member 118 and the outer body 106can be a single part or structure.

Returning to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the isolator 100 can include a PCB 120.The PCB 120 can be coupled between a PCB coupler 122 and an output pin124. The PCB coupler 122 can be configured to receive a male pin from adevice or cable connected to the coupler 104. The output pin 124 can beconfigured to conduct signals to/from devices or cables connected to theisolator 100. The isolator 100 can include a support and sealing member128 at or proximal to an axial end of the outer shield 106. The supportand sealing member 128 can be formed in a cylindrical shape with a holeto receive the output pin 124. The support and sealing member 128 can beconfigured to hold the output pin 124 in place for connection of devicesor cables to the isolation device 100.

The PCB 120 can be configured to condition signals passing from the PCBcoupler 122 to the output pin 124. The PCB 120 can include any type ofcircuitry 126 to provide filtering and conditioning to the signalspassing from the PCB coupler 122 to the output pin 124. For example, thePCB 120 can include one or more low-pass filters, bandpass filters, bandreject filters, high-pass filters, amplifiers, diplexers, Multimediaover Coax Alliance (MoCA) filters, and the like. The PCB 120, the PCBcoupler 122, and the output pin 124 include an RF signal transmissionpath through the coupling/filtering member 118 that conductively couplesdevices and/or cables connected at the input (e.g., coupler 104) and theoutput (e.g., threads 218) of the isolator 100. In some implementations,the PCB 120 (including the circuitry 126), the PCB coupler 122, and theoutput pin 124 can be combined into a single assembly.

In some implementations, the isolator 100 includes a coaxial PCB 130.The coaxial PCB 130 can be configured to provide a connection betweenthe body 102 and the filtering/coupling member 118 and the outer shield106. While coaxial PCB 130 is illustrated as having cylindrical (e.g.,annular) shape, the coaxial PCB 130 can be formed using other profiles(e.g., rectangular, triangular, oval, etc.).

FIGS. 3A-3E illustrate different views of examples of the coaxial PCB130, according to various implementations. In particular, FIG. 3Aillustrates a perspective view of a front 300 of the coaxial PCB 130,and FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view of a rear 302 of the coaxialPCB 130. As illustrated, the coaxial PCB 130 can include an isolatorring 304 positioned between an outer conductor layer 306 and innerconductor layer 308. The isolator ring 304 can be formed of a dielectricmaterial, for example, a plastic insulator. The isolator ring 304 can beformed from a substrate material, for example, FR4 substrate. The outerconductor layer 306 and the inner conductor layer 308 can be formed of aconductive material, for example, a metal or metal alloy. The outerconductor layer 306 can be positioned at or proximal to an outerdiameter of the PCB 130, and the inner conductor layer 308 may bepositioned at or proximal to an inner diameter thereof.

The coaxial PCB 130 can include one or more surface mounted circuits 310(e.g., a surface mounted technology (SMT) circuit) placed on theisolator ring 304 and a plated via a hole 312 formed axially in (e.g.,through) the isolator ring 304. The hole 312 can be formed at leastpartially from conductive material, for example, a metal or metal alloy.In some implementations, for example, the one or more surface mountedcircuits 310 can include capacitive circuits, inductive circuits,resistive circuits, filtering circuits, and the like. The outerconductor layer 306 and the inner conductor layer 308 can beelectrically coupled through the one or more surface mounted circuits310.

FIGS. 3C and 3D illustrate examples of another example of coaxial PCB130, according to various implementations. In particular, FIG. 3Cillustrates a view of a front 350 of the coaxial PCB 130, and FIG. 3Dillustrates a view of a rear 352 of the coaxial PCB 130. The coaxial PCB130 can include an isolator ring 354 positioned between two layers: anouter conductor layer 356 and an inner conductor layer 358. The toplayer 356 can include one or more surface mounted circuit footprints 362(e.g., four footprints), which can receive one or more surface mountedcircuits. The isolator ring 354 can be formed of a dielectric material,for example, a plastic insulator. The isolator ring 354 can be formedfrom a substrate material, for example, FR4 substrate. The outerconductor layer 356 and the inner conductor layer 358 can be formed of aconductor material, for example, a metal or metal alloy.

The coaxial PCB 130 illustrated in FIGS. 3C and 3D can include one ormore surface mounted circuits (not shown) placed on the isolator ring354 and one or more plated via holes 360 formed in the isolator ring 304and electrically coupled to the circuit footprints 362. The plated viaholes 360 can be formed of a conductor material, for example, a metal ormetal alloy. The outer conductor layer 356 and the inner conductor layer358 can be electrically coupled through the one or more surface mountedcircuits.

In some implementations, the coaxial PCB 130 can function to blockdirect current (DC) current flow between the body 102, and the outershield 106 and coupling/filtering member 118. For example, the coaxialPCB 130 can be placed in the isolator 100 so that the outer ringconductor 306 (or the outer ring conductor 356) is in electrical contactwith the body 102, and the inner ring conductor 308 (or inner ringconductor 358) is in electrical contact with the coupling/filteringmember 118. For example, the inner diameter of the coaxial PCB 130 canbe configured to fit over any of the diameters 202, 204, and 206 of thecoupling/filtering member 118 depending on the configuration of theisolator 100, as further discussed below in FIGS. 4A-4D.

FIG. 3E illustrates an implementation of the coaxial PCB 130. Asillustrated in FIG. 3E, the coaxial PCB 130 can include an isolator ring384 positioned between an outer ring conductor 386 and inner ringconductor 388. The isolator ring 384 can be formed from a dielectricmaterial, (e.g., a substrate material, such as a FR4 substrate). Theouter ring conductor 386 and the inner ring conductor 388 can be formedof a conductive material, for example, a metal or metal alloy, platedcopper, copper etc. In some implementations, one or more areas 390 ofthe outer ring conductor 386 can be removed to accommodate support edges(not shown) for high volume PCB manufacturing.

Returning again to FIGS. 1A and 1B, in some implementations the coaxialPCB 130 illustrated in FIGS. 3C and 3D can function as a filter thatblocks direct current (“DC”) flow between the body 102, and the outershield 106 and coupling/filtering member 118 by deploying capacitivecoupling elements such as capacitors. For example, the coaxial PCB 130can be placed in the isolator 100 so that the outer conductor layer 306(or the outer conductor layer 356) is in electrical contact with thebody 102 and the inner conductor layer 308 (or inner conductor layer358) is in electrical contact with the coupling/filtering member 118.For example, the inner diameter of the coaxial PCB 130 can be configuredto fit over any of the diameters 202, 204, and 206 of thecoupling/filtering member 118 depending on the configuration of theisolator 100, as further discussed below in reference to FIGS. 4A-4D.

Still referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the isolator 100 can include one ormore toroids 132 configured to filter and/or attenuate RF signal ingressinto the isolator 100 or RF signal egress from the isolator 100 that maybe induced by signals traveling through the isolator 100. The toroids132 can be formed of a magnetic material (e.g., ferrite) having forexample, a cylindrical shape. In accordance with aspects of the presentdisclosure, the one or more toroids 132 can be positioned axiallyadjacent to the coaxial PCB 130 and surrounding a portion of thecoupling/filtering member 118 within the RF filtering cavity (e.g.,inner cavity 216). In some implementations, the inner diameter of thetoroid 132 can be formed to any of the diameters 202, 204, 206 of thecoupling/filtering member 118. The toroid 132 can be configured tofilter and/or attenuate RF ingress into the isolator or RF egress fromthe isolator 100 that may be induced by signals traveling through theisolator 100.

In some implementations, the isolator 100 includes a support member 134configured to hold the PCB coupler 122 in place for connection ofdevices or cables to the input of the isolation device 100 at thecoupler 104. The support member 134 can be formed in a cylindrical shapewith a hole to receive the PCB coupler 122 and sized to fit within adiameter of the coupler 104.

Further, implementations of the isolator 100 can include a compressionmember 136 configured to provide axially-directed force on thecomponents of the isolator 100 to improve the mechanical connections ofthe components. For example, the compression member 136 can beconfigured to provide force on the coaxial PCB 130 and/or the toroid132. In some implementations, for example, the compression member 136can be a spring or any other resilient member.

FIGS. 1C and 1D illustrate an example isolator 100 including aninsulating grip 135, according to aspects of the present disclosure. Theisolator 100 of FIGS. 1C and 1D can be the same or similar to thatpreviously described. In some implementations, the isolator 100 caninclude an insulator sleeve 135. The insulator sleeve 135 can be formedin a cylindrical shape to fit over (e.g., slide over) a portion of theouter shield 106. The insulator sleeve 135 can be formed of a dielectricmaterial, such as, plastic or rubber. The insulator sleeve 135 canprovide an insulating barrier and/or grip on the outside of the isolator100 so that the isolator 100 can be safely handled by an installer oruser.

The insulator sleeve 135 can include a lip 137 formed on one end of theinsulator sleeve 135. When the shield 106 is compression fitted over thebody 102, the lip 137 of the insulator sleeve 135 can fit between thelip 110 of the body 102 and the edge 112 of the outer shield 106. Insome implementations, the lip 137 of the insulator sleeve 135 can serveas the spacer 108, as described above. While not illustrated, theexample of the isolator 100 illustrated in FIG. 1C can include a sleeve114, as described below.

As illustrated in FIG. 1D, the insulator sleeve 135 can include one ormore raised members 139. The one or more raised member 139 can provide asurface to increase the friction of the insulator sleeve 135. Theincrease in friction can improve the grip of the isolator 100 whenhandling the isolator 100. The one or more raised members 139 can beformed of any insulating material, such as plastic. The one or moreraised members 139 can be formed in any size, shape, configuration, andnumber to provide a surface on the insulator sleeve 135 to improve thegrip of the insulator sleeve 135. In some implementation, the insulatorsleeve 135 can be formed in a particular color to identify the insulatorsleeve as the gripping point on the isolator 100 and improve theesthetic design of the insulator sleeve. The insulator sleeve 135 can beformed in any color, for example, red as illustrated in FIG. 1D.

FIG. 1E illustrates example of the isolator 100 with a two stage design,according to aspects of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1E, theisolator 100 can include one or more components as described above withreference to FIGS. 1A-1D. The various components of the isolator 100shown in FIG. 1E can be the same or similar to those describedpreviously herein with regard to FIGS. 1A-1D, 2A, 2B, and 3A-3E. Theimplementation of the isolator 100 shown in FIG. 1E can include twocoaxial PCBs 130. The coaxial PCBs 130 can be configured to provide RFcoupling between the body 102 and the filtering/coupling member 118 andthe outer shield 106. The isolator 100 can include two toroids 132. Asillustrated in FIG. 1E, the two coaxial PCBs 130 and toroids 132 can bepositioned in an alternating pattern. The toroids 132 can be formed of amagnetic material, for example, ferrite. The toroids 132 can bepositioned to surround a portion of the coupling/filtering member 118 ina cavity (e.g., annular cavity 216) of the filtering/coupling member118. For example, the inner diameter of the toroids 132 can be formed toany of the diameters 202, 204, 206 of the coupling/filtering member 118.The toroids 132 can be configured to filter and/or attenuate RF ingressinto the isolator or RF egress from the isolator 100 that may be inducedby signals traveling through the isolator 100 gap.

In some implementations, as illustrated in FIG. 1E, the isolator 100 caninclude a sleeve 114. The sleeve 114 can be formed of a dielectricmaterial and can be placed between the outer shield 106 and the body102. The spacer 108 and/or the sleeve 114 can create a barrier betweenthe body 102 and the outer shield 106 to electrically isolate the body102 for the outer shield 106 when the shield is compression fitted onthe body 102. In some implementations, the sleeve 114 can include atapered portion 150 formed to a diameter smaller than the remainingportion of the sleeve 114. The tapered portion 150 can be configured tobe engage with a tapered portion 152 of the body 102 when the isolator100 is compression fitted.

FIGS. 4A-4I illustrate examples of configurations of an isolator 100,according to various implementations. Some of the components of FIGS.4A-4I are not discussed below, but are described above with reference toFIGS. 1A-1E, 2A, 2B, and 3A-3E. While FIGS. 4A-4I illustrate someexamples of configurations of an isolator 100, any of the configurationsand components illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4I can be combined to formadditional examples of configurations of an isolator 100.

FIG. 4A illustrates a cutaway side view of an example of the isolator100, according to various implementations. As shown, the toroid 132 canbe positioned on a side of the isolator 100 closer to the coupler 104.In some implementations, for example, the coaxial PCB 130 can be thecoaxial PCB 130 as described in FIGS. 3A and 3B. In someimplementations, for example, the coaxial PCB 130 can be the coaxial PCB130, as described in FIGS. 3C and 3D. In some implementations, forexample, the coaxial PCB 130 can be the coaxial PCB 130, as described inFIG. 3E. While FIG. 4A illustrates the positioning of the toroid 132 andthe coaxial PCB 130, in some implementations, the positioning of thetoroid 132 and the coaxial PCB 130 can be reversed.

FIG. 4B illustrates a cutaway side view of an example of the isolator100, according to another implementation. As shown, the isolator 100 canbe configured with the toroid 132 placed between the two coaxial PCBs130. In some implementations, for example the isolator 100 can includetwo versions of the coaxial PCB 130. In some implementations, forexample, the isolator 100 can include two of the coaxial PCBs 130,illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B. In some implementations, for example,the isolator 100 can include two of the coaxial PCBs 130, illustrated inFIGS. 3C and 3D. In some implementations, for example, the isolator 100can include two of the coaxial PCB 130, as described in FIG. 3E. In someimplementations, for example, the isolator 100 can include one of thecoaxial PCB 130, illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B, and one of the coaxialPCB 130 as described in FIGS. 3C and 3D. In some implementations, forexample, the isolator 100 can include one of the coaxial PCB 130, asdescribed in FIG. 3E. In some implementations, for example, the twocoaxial PCBs 130 can include the same SMT circuits, different SMTcircuits, or combinations thereof.

FIG. 4C illustrates a cutaway side view of an example of the isolator100 according to various implementations. As shown, the isolator 100 canbe configured with the two toroids 132. In this example, the toroids 132can be positioned can be positioned on a side of the isolator 100 closerto the coupler 104. For example, the toroids 132 can be formed to fitover the diameters 202 and 204 of the coupling/filtering member 118. Theisolator 100 can also include the coaxial PCB 130 positioned on theoutput side of the coupling/filtering member 118. In someimplementations, for example, the coaxial PCB 130 can be the coaxial PCB130 as described in FIGS. 3A and 3B. In some implementations, forexample, the coaxial PCB 130 can be the coaxial PCB 130, as described inFIGS. 3C and 3D. In some implementations, for example, the coaxial PCB130 can be the coaxial PCB 130, as described in FIG. 3E. While FIG. 4Cillustrates the positioning of the toroids 132 and the coaxial PCB 130,in some implementations, the positioning of the toroids 132 and thecoaxial PCB 130 can be reversed.

FIG. 4D illustrates a cutaway side view of an example of the isolator100, according to various implementations. The components in theimplementation of the isolator shown in FIG. 4D can be the same orsimilar to those previously described herein. As shown, the isolator 100can be configured with the toroid 132 positioned after the coaxial PCB130 with respect to the position of the coupler 104 of the body 102around the central axis 150 of the isolator 100. In someimplementations, for example, the coaxial PCB 130 can be the coaxial PCB130 as described in FIGS. 3A and 3B. In some implementations, forexample, the coaxial PCB 130 can be the coaxial PCB 130, as described inFIGS. 3C and 3D. In some implementations, for example, the coaxial PCB130 can be the coaxial PCB 130, as described in FIG. 3E. While FIG. 4Aillustrates the positioning of the toroid 132 and the coaxial PCB 130,in some implementations, the positioning of the toroid 132 and thecoaxial PCB 130 can be reversed.

In some implementations, the isolator 100 can include the insulatorsleeve 135. As illustrated in FIG. 4D, the insulator sleeve 135 can beplaced over a portion of the outer shield 106. The insulator sleeve 135can create an insulating barrier or grip on the outside of the isolator100 so that the isolator 100 can be safely handled by an installer oruser. When the shield 106 is compression fitted over the body 102, lip137 of the insulator sleeve 135 can fit between the lip 110 of the body102 and the edge 112 of the outer shield 106.

FIG. 4E illustrates a cutaway side view of an example of the isolator100, according to various implementations. The components in theimplementation of the isolator shown in FIG. 4E can be the same orsimilar to those previously described herein. As shown, the isolator 100can be configured with the toroid 132 positioned between the two coaxialPCBs 130 around the central axis 150 of the isolator 100. In someimplementations, for example the isolator 100 can include two versionsof the coaxial PCB 130. In some implementations, for example, theisolator 100 can include two of the coaxial PCBs 130, illustrated inFIGS. 3A and 3B. In some implementations, for example, the isolator 100can include two of the coaxial PCBs 130, illustrated in FIGS. 3C and 3D.In some implementations, for example, the isolator 100 can include twoof the coaxial PCB 130, as described in FIG. 3E. In someimplementations, for example, the isolator 100 can include one of thecoaxial PCB 130, illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B, and one of the coaxialPCB 130 as described in FIGS. 3C and 3D. In some implementations, forexample, the isolator 100 can include one of the coaxial PCB 130, asdescribed in FIG. 3E. In some implementations, for example, the twocoaxial PCBs 130 can include the same SMT circuits, different SMTcircuits, or combinations thereof.

In some implementations, the isolator 100 can include the insulatorsleeve 135. As illustrated in FIG. 4E, the insulator sleeve 135 can beplaced over a portion of the outer shield 106. The insulator sleeve 135can create an insulating barrier or grip on the outside of the isolator100 so that the isolator 100 can be safely handled by an installer oruser. When the shield 106 is compression fitted over the body 102, thelip 137 of the insulator sleeve 135 can fit between the lip 110 of thebody 102 and the edge 112 of the outer shield 106.

FIG. 4F illustrates a cutaway side view of an example of the isolator100 according to various implementations. The components in theimplementation of the isolator shown in FIG. 4F can be the same orsimilar to those previously described herein. As shown, the isolator 100can be configured with at least one PCB 130 the two toroids 132. In thisimplementation, the toroids 132 can be positioned can be positionedaround the central axis 150 on a side of the isolator 100 closer to thecoupler 104 in relation to the PCB 130. For example, the toroids 132 canbe formed to fit over the diameters 202 and 204 of thecoupling/filtering member 118. The isolator 100 can also include thecoaxial PCB 130 positioned on the output side of the coupling/filteringmember 118. In some implementations, for example, the coaxial PCB 130can be the coaxial PCB 130 as described in FIGS. 3A and 3B. In someimplementations, for example, the coaxial PCB 130 can be the coaxial PCB130, as described in FIGS. 3C and 3D. In some implementations, forexample, the coaxial PCB 130 can be the coaxial PCB 130, as described inFIG. 3E. While FIG. 4F illustrates the positioning of the toroids 132and the coaxial PCB 130, in some implementations, the positioning of thetoroids 132 and the coaxial PCB 130 can be reversed.

In some implementations, the isolator 100 can include the insulatorsleeve 135. As illustrated in FIG. 4F, the insulator sleeve 135 can beplaced over a portion of the outer shield 106. The insulator sleeve 135can create an insulating barrier or grip on the outside of the isolator100 so that the isolator 100 can be safely handled by an installer oruser. When the shield 106 is compression fitted over the body 102, thelip 137 of the insulator sleeve 135 can fit between the lip 110 of thebody 102 and the edge 112 of the outer shield 106.

FIG. 4G illustrates a cutaway side view of an example of the isolator100 according to various implementations. The components in theimplementation of the isolator shown in FIG. 4G can be the same orsimilar to those previously described herein. As shown, the isolator 100can be configured to include a symmetrical input side 403 and outputside 405. For example, as illustrated, the isolator 100 can include twothe female (or male) input sides with the PCB 120 coupled between. Inthis example, each side 403, 405 can include a body 102, andcoupling/filtering member 118. The body 102 of each side 403, 405 cancompress a common insulator sleeve 135 between the body 102 of each side403, 405. Additionally, each side 403, 405 can include one or morecoaxial PCBs 130 and one or more toroids 132. For example, each side ofthe isolator 100 can include a configuration of one or more coaxial PCB130 and one or more toroids 132 as described above in FIGS. 4A-4F or asdescribed below in FIGS. 4H and 4I.

FIG. 4H illustrates a cutaway side view of an example of the isolator100 according to various implementations. The components in theimplementation of the isolator shown in FIG. 4H can be the same orsimilar to those previously described herein. As shown, the isolator 100can include two coaxial PCBs 130 and two toroids 132. As discussed abovewith reference to FIG. 1E, the two coaxial PCBs 130 and toroids 132 canbe positioned around the central axis 150 in an alternating pattern. Insome implementations, the isolator 100 can include two of the coaxialPCBs 130, illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B. In some implementations, forexample, the isolator 100 can include two of the coaxial PCBs 130,illustrated in FIGS. 3C and 3D. In some implementations, for example,the isolator 100 can include two of the coaxial PCB 130, as described inFIG. 3E. In some implementations, for example, the isolator 100 caninclude one of the coaxial PCB 130, illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B, andone of the coaxial PCB 130 as described in FIGS. 3C and 3D. In someimplementations, for example, the isolator 100 can include one of thecoaxial PCB 130, as described in FIG. 3E. In some implementations, forexample, the two coaxial PCBs 130 can include the same circuits,different circuits, or combinations thereof.

In some implementations, as illustrated in FIG. 4H, the isolator 100 caninclude the sleeve 414 that includes a tapered portion 450. The sleevecan be formed from a dielectric material, as previously describedherein. The tapered portion 450 can be formed to a diameter smaller thanthe remaining portion of the sleeve 414. The tapered portion 450 can beconfigured to engage with a tapered portion 152 of the body 102 when theisolator 100 is assembled by compression fitting. The sleeve 414 can beplaced between the outer shield 106 and the body 102. The spacer 108 andthe sleeve 414 can, thereby, create an electrical barrier between thebody 102 and the outer shield 106 that electrically isolates the body102 for the outer shield 106 when the shield is compression fitted onthe body 102.

FIG. 4I illustrates a cutaway side view of an example of the isolator100 according to various implementations. The components in theimplementation of the isolator shown in FIG. 4I can be the same orsimilar to those previously described herein. As shown, the isolator 100can include two coaxial PCBs 130 and two toroids 132. As discussed abovewith reference to FIG. 1E, the two coaxial PCBs 130 and toroids 132 canbe positioned around the central axis 150 in an alternating pattern. Insome implementations, for example, the isolator 100 can include two ofthe coaxial PCBs 130, illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B. In someimplementations, for example, the isolator 100 can include two of thecoaxial PCBs 130, illustrated in FIGS. 3C and 3D. In someimplementations, for example, the isolator 100 can include two of thecoaxial PCB 130, as described in FIG. 3E. In some implementations, forexample, the isolator 100 can include one of the coaxial PCB 130,illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B, and one of the coaxial PCB 130 asdescribed in FIGS. 3C and 3D. In some implementations, for example, theisolator 100 can include one of the coaxial PCB 130, as described inFIG. 3E. In some implementations, for example, the two coaxial PCBs 130can include the same circuits, different circuits, or combinationsthereof.

In some implementations, as illustrated in FIG. 4I, the isolator 100 caninclude sleeve 414 that includes a tapered portion 450. As describedpreviously, the tapered portion 450 can be formed to a diameter smallerthan the remaining portion of the sleeve 414. The tapered portion 450can be configured to engage with a tapered portion 152 of the body 102when the isolator 100 is compression fitted. The sleeve 114 can beplaced between the outer shield 106 and the body 102 to create anelectrical barrier between the body 102 and the outer shield 106 aspreviously described herein.

In some implementations, as illustrated in FIG. 4I, the isolator 100 canalso include a one or more gaskets 455. The gasket 455 can be formed ina cylindrical configuration around the central axis 150 and fit betweenthe body 102 and the outer shield 106 and surround thefiltering/coupling member 118. In some example, the gasket 455 can beformed of a non-conductive material, a conductive material, orcombinations thereof. The gasket 455 can be positioned to improveperformance of the shielding effectiveness, for example, shielding radiofrequency interference. While FIG. 4I illustrates one position for thegasket 455, the one or more gaskets 455 can be positioned at anylocation in the isolator 100 to improve performance of the shieldingeffectiveness, for example, shielding radio frequency interference.Additionally, any of the examples illustrated above in FIGS. 4A-4H caninclude one or more gaskets 455.

FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded perspective of an example of an isolator100, according to various implementations consistent with the presentdisclosure. The various components of the isolator 100 illustrated inthe examples shown in FIG. 5 can be the same or similar to thosepreviously described herein. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the isolator 100can include a PCB 120 that provides signal conditioning for a Multimediaover Coax Alliance (MoCA) signals. For example, the PCB 120 can includea one or more RF filters where a passband is 5 MHz-1002 MHz and a rejectband is 1125 MHz to 1675 MHz ii). For example, the PCB 120 can include aone or more filters where a passband is 5 MHz-1194 MHz and a reject bandis 1218 MHz to 1675 MHz. While not illustrated in FIG. 5, the example ofthe isolator 100 illustrated in FIG. 5 can include an insulator sleeve135 as described above.

While the teachings have been described with reference to examples ofthe implementations thereof, those skilled in the art will be able tomake various modifications to the described implementations withoutdeparting from the true spirit and scope. The terms and descriptionsused herein are set forth by way of illustration only and are not meantas limitations. In particular, although the method has been described byexamples, the steps of the method may be performed in a different orderthan illustrated or simultaneously. Furthermore, to the extent that theterms “including”, “includes”, “having”, “has”, “with”, or variantsthereof are used in either the detailed description and the claims, suchterms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term“comprising.” As used herein, the terms “one or more of” and “at leastone of” with respect to a listing of items such as, for example, A andB, means A alone, B alone, or A and B. Further, unless specifiedotherwise, the term “set” should be interpreted as “one or more.” Also,the term “couple” or “couples” is intended to mean either an indirect ordirect connection. Thus, if a first device couples to a second device,that connection may be through a direct connection, or through anindirect connection via other devices, components, and connections.

What is claimed is:
 1. A coaxial radio frequency (RF) isolatorcomprising: a conductive body comprising a first coaxial couplerconfigured to connect the isolator to a first device; a conductive outershield positioned at least partially around at least a portion of theconductive body; a dielectric barrier positioned at least partiallybetween conductive body and the conductive outer shield, wherein thedielectric barrier is configured to electrically isolate the conductivebody from the conductive outer shield; a second coaxial couplerconfigured to connect the isolator to a second device; a signalconditioning device configured to condition RF signals communicatedbetween the first coaxial coupler and the second coaxial coupler; asignal path extending at least partially through the first coaxialcoupler, the signal conditioning device, and the second coaxial coupler,wherein the signal path is configured to conduct the RF signals betweenthe first coaxial coupler and the second coaxial coupler; a coaxialcircuit configured to block direct current flow between the conductivebody, the conductive outer shield, the second coaxial coupler, or acombination thereof; and a magnetic toroid configured to filter the RFsignals from electromagnetic interference.
 2. The isolator of claim 1,wherein the conductive outer shield is configured to slide over theconductive body and to attach to the conductive body solely bycompression fitting.
 3. The isolator of claim 1, wherein the coaxialcircuit is configured to attach at least partially within the isolatorsolely by compression fitting.
 4. The isolator of claim 1, wherein: thecoaxial circuit comprises an annular shape; a first surface of thecoaxial circuit is configured to contact the conductive body; a secondsurface of the coaxial circuit is configured to contact the signalconditioning device; and a third surface of the coaxial surface isconfigured to contact the second coaxial coupler.
 5. The isolator ofclaim 1, wherein the coaxial circuit comprises: an insulator ring; afirst conductor layer formed on an outer surface of the insulator ring;a second conductor layer formed on an inner surface of the insulatorring; and one or more electrical circuits configured to electricallycouple the first conductor layer and the second conductor layer.
 6. Theisolator of claim 1, wherein the magnetic toroid comprises an innerdiameter configured to fit around an outer diameter of the secondcoaxial coupler.
 7. The isolator of claim 1, further comprising adielectric spacer comprising an annular shape, wherein the dielectricspacer is configured to electrically isolate the conductive body fromthe conductive outer shield.
 8. The isolator of claim 1, wherein thedielectric barrier comprises a cylindrical shape configured to fit overan outer surface of the conductive outer shield to provide an insulatinggrip.
 9. An isolator comprising: an input connector configured toconnect the isolator to a first device; an output connector configuredto connect the isolator to a second device; a body comprising an outershield; a coupling member positioned at least partially within the outershield, wherein the coupling member is configured to electrically couplewith the outer shield; a coaxial circuit positioned at least partiallyaround a first portion of the coupling member; a toroid positioned atleast partially around a second portion of the coupling member; acompression material configured to apply a force to the coaxial circuitand the toroid; and a signal conditioning circuit configured tocondition signals communicated between the input connector and theoutput connector.
 10. The isolator of claim 9, further comprising one ormore dielectric members configured to electrically isolate the outershield.
 11. The isolator of claim 9, wherein the coaxial circuit isconfigured to electrically couple the coupling member with the body. 12.The isolator of claim 9, wherein the signal conditioning circuitcomprises a component selected from the group consisting of: a high passfilter, a low pass filter, an amplifier, a bandpass filter, a bandreject filter, and a Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA) circuit. 13.The isolator of claim 12, further comprising a second coaxial circuitpositioned at least partially around a third portion of the couplingmember.
 14. The isolator of claim 12, further comprising a second toroidpositioned at least partially around a third portion of the couplingmember.
 15. An isolator comprising: an outer shield; a first connectorconfigured to connect the isolator to a first device; a second connectorconfigured to connect the isolator to a second device; a conditioningcircuit configured to condition signals communicated between the firstconnector and the second connector; an anti-rotation feature configuredto prevent the conditioning circuit from rotating; and a coaxial circuitconfigured to provide ground isolation between the first connector andthe second connector.
 16. The isolator of claim 15, further comprising atoroid positioned at least partially around the second connector,wherein the toroid is configured to filter electromagnetic interference.17. The isolator of claim 15, further comprising a signal path extendingat least partially through the first connector, the conditioningcircuit, and the second connector, wherein the signal path is configuredto conduct the signals communicated between the first connector and thesecond connector.
 18. The isolator of claim 17, wherein the coaxialcircuit is positioned at least partially around the signal path.
 19. Theisolator of claim 15, wherein the coaxial circuit is configured to blockdirect current flow between the outer shield and the second connector.20. The isolator of claim 15, wherein: the first connector is configuredto receive an input signal from the first device; and the secondconnector is configured to transmit an output signal to the seconddevice.
 21. The isolator of claim 15, further comprising a compressionmaterial configured to apply a force to the coaxial circuit.
 22. Theisolator of claim 15, wherein the anti-rotation feature comprises acoupling member having a slot formed therein.
 23. The isolator of claim22, further comprising a toroid configured to filter electromagneticinterference, wherein the coaxial circuit is configured to be positionedat least partially around a first portion of the coupling member, andwherein the toroid is configured to be positioned at least partiallyaround a second portion of the coupling member.
 24. The isolator ofclaim 22, wherein the conditioning circuit is configured to bepositioned at least partially within the slot, thereby preventing theconditioning circuit from rotating.
 25. The isolator of claim 24,wherein the slot is defined at least partially by: a first axiallyextending surface; a second axially extending surface that iscircumferentially offset from the first axially extending surface; and acircumferentially extending surface that extends between the first andsecond axially extending surfaces.
 26. The isolator of claim 24, whereinthe slot extends from an inner radial surface of the coupling member toan outer radial surface of the coupling member.
 27. The isolator ofclaim 24, wherein the slot comprises two slots that arecircumferentially offset from one another around an axial end of thecoupling member.
 28. An isolator comprising: an input connectorconfigured to connect the isolator to a first device; an outputconnector configured to connect the isolator to a second device; asignal conditioning circuit configured to be positioned at leastpartially between the input connector and the output connector and tocondition signals communicated between the input connector and theoutput connector; a coupling member configured to be positioned at leastpartially between the input connector and the output connector, whereinthe coupling member comprises an anti-rotation feature that isconfigured to prevent the signal conditioning circuit from rotating; acoaxial circuit configured to be positioned at least partially around afirst portion of the coupling member; a toroid configured to bepositioned at least partially around a second portion of the couplingmember; and an outer shield configured to be positioned at leastpartially around the coupling member, the coaxial circuit, and thetoroid.
 29. The isolator of claim 28, further comprising a compressionmaterial configured to apply a force to the coaxial circuit, the toroid,or both.
 30. The isolator of claim 28, wherein the anti-rotation featurecomprises a slot that is defined at least partially by: a first axiallyextending surface; a second axially extending surface that iscircumferentially offset from the first axially extending surface; and acircumferentially extending surface that extends between the first andsecond axially extending surfaces.
 31. The isolator of claim 28, whereinthe anti-rotation feature extends from an inner radial surface of thecoupling member to an outer radial surface of the coupling member. 32.The isolator of claim 28, wherein the anti-rotation feature comprisestwo anti-rotation features that are circumferentially offset from oneanother around an axial end of the coupling member.
 33. An isolatorcomprising: a first connector configured to connect the isolator to afirst device; a second connector configured to connect the isolator to asecond device; a conditioning circuit configured to condition signalscommunicated between the first connector and the second connector; anouter shield configured to be positioned at least partially around theconditioning circuit; an anti-rotation feature configured to prevent theconditioning circuit from rotating with respect to the outer shield; anda coaxial circuit configured to be positioned at least partially withinthe outer shield.
 34. The isolator of claim 33, wherein theanti-rotation feature comprises a coupling member, and wherein thecoaxial circuit is positioned at least partially around the couplingmember.
 35. The isolator of claim 34, wherein the coupling memberdefines a slot therein, and wherein the conditioning circuit isconfigured to be positioned at least partially within the slot, therebypreventing the conditioning circuit from rotating.
 36. The isolator ofclaim 35, wherein the slot is defined at least partially by: a firstaxially extending surface; a second axially extending surface that iscircumferentially offset from the first axially extending surface; and acircumferentially extending surface that extends between the first andsecond axially extending surfaces.
 37. The isolator of claim 34, whereinthe anti-rotation feature extends from an inner radial surface of thecoupling member to an outer radial surface of the coupling member. 38.The isolator of claim 34, wherein the anti-rotation feature comprisestwo anti-rotation features that are circumferentially offset from oneanother around an axial end of the coupling member.